Remember Maddie Musto? Join this event to help her foundation

I tend to pass on posting about charity events that aren’t related to OTE/me because, if I say yes to one I feel I should say “yes” to the others.

So, before anyone complains (and, yes, they will) that I’m sharing this one when I’ve said no to many others, I’ll explain up front. I’ve followed Maddie’s story since she was diagnosed. R works with her husband (and has played in the Maddie’s Mark Foundation golf tournament), a reader photographed Maddie’s family in the days following the diagnosis and one of my favorite local retailers — Pottery Barn — was ever-generous and helpful in planning an aesthetic element of Maddie’s funeral (and I’ve talked about how their customer service just rocks,overall). Plus, Maddie’s story — and her family’s initiative — has moved me. In fact, I even hope to (try — try) to waddle through make it to this 5K.

Here ya go:

Maddie’s Mark Foundation was established in early 2012 to honor Madeline Musto. The independent, vibrant 5-year-old was taken away from the world by an inoperable brain stem tumor (DIPG) five days after her diagnosis.

Soon after, Madeline’s family established “Maddie’s Mark Foundation.” The foundation’s mission is to spread Madeline’s spirit by providing opportunities, creating environments and enabling people and families to live a life of ‘best days ever’.

This year Maddie’s Mark will host a 5K on October 19 at Central Park Schenectady. Maddie’s story has moved so many, last year this race sold out early.

New to this year, a children’s race that will begin at 9 a.m. and a family 5K walk at 10 a.m. (after the individual 5k start). Individual timed 5K runner/walkers will begin at 10.

Maddie’s Mark Foundation is the family’s way of showing the world their Madeline. It is their way of carrying on her legacy for as long as they live and beyond. Their hope is for people to enjoy all the good the world has to offer, to enjoy their ‘best days ever’. The goals of the foundation are a reflection of Madeline’s spirit and outlook on life. All support and donations will be going toward these goals:

1. Maddie’s Mark provides ‘best days ever’ for children suffering from major illness, and provides support for their families;

2. Maddie’s Mark actively encourages child enrichment through financial grants to improve public and private entertainment, educational and athletic facilities for children – including schools, parks, playgrounds, and theatres; and,

3. Honor Madeline’s legacy and love of learning through a scholarship program to remarkable young women.

Entry fees are $25 for adults and $5 for children. To register, or for more information, click here.

5 Responses

I never met them, but Maddie and her family touched me so deeply. They moved me to not only appreciate the little things, but also to be more giving. I did the 5K last year, and hope to again this year with my family. This reader appreciates your post!